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Ravine Gardens State Park
1600 Twigg St, Palatka, FL 32177, United States
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Te
Review №1

Eveything the website showed and more, we went on the longer strenuous walk and it was great. We felt safe with social distancing. The bathrooms were clean and comfortable. The tropical plants were amazing. The trees were so beautiful. We saw ample wildlife, woodpeckers, squirrels and birds of all kinds. Loved it.

Mi
Review №2

A nice morning hiking spot in Northern FL. Likely one of the few places you will actually find hills! The gardens are gorgeous and the paths well laid-out. Easily a way to spend an hour or two on a Saturday.

Me
Review №3

Really neat place with a few different trails and cool suspension bridges. Saw a couple of large alligator snapping girls. Cant wait to go back to see the azaleas in the spring!

Vi
Review №4

This is a cute place tucked away in Palatka. Great place for a hike, picnic or to walk a dog. The suspension bridges are a nice touch and there are some modern touches like a playground for kids and nice bathrooms. Looking forward to going back in the spring to see the Azalea’s.

Th
Review №5

Great picnic area with lots of facilities. The suspension bridge is very cool and so is the spring at bottom of ravine. Playground for kids.

Je
Review №6

Very beautiful Park! We enjoyed both the azalea trail and the driving trail. The azalea trail is very challenging and very uneven terrain with large roots and steep slopes in several areas. There was also a few very wet and muddy areas, so dont wear your best shoes.Several beautiful areas with picnic tables and pavilions to have a picnic lunch. there was two locations in the park that had full service bathrooms and they were very clean.Overall it is a very beautiful Park. Plan a full day to fully enjoy the entire park on your visit.

Sh
Review №7

I wish I could give this more stars! This place is amazing for hikers, kids, families, everyone. The kids loved the playground and we loved the gorgeous hiking. We missed the azaleas as they were not blooming during our trip but hoping to make it back to see them. The suspension bridges were a big hit with the kids. Make sure to wear good walking shoes.

Mi
Review №8

Amazing park snuzzled away in Palatka. Little too hot for the trail. We will back when the weather cools off.

RL
Review №9

Beautiful park. Well maintained. Good walking/hiking. Not many blooming flowers in summer. Spring probably best time to fully enjoy all the park has to offer.

Ka
Review №10

This is by far one of my favorite hiking spots. Most of the trail paths are currently closed from last years storm damage, but theres a good mile-long loop still open with nice scenery. I definitely hope to return when the rest of trails are reopened, we love this place!

Lu
Review №11

Beautiful. Well maintained and clean. Wonderful for the old and the young. Something for everyone. Worth making the trip! Dont forget your walking shoes..

Ku
Review №12

Good if you just want a short experience, perhaps with younger kids. The supposed 2.5m trail, marked with red blazes, was difficult to follow the whole way, and often paralleled the paved drive... not my idea of a hike in the woods.

ke
Review №13

Beautiful spot! We stopped on our way back from the beach for a picnic and a walk with the dogs. Loved it but cautionary note to those with dogs, ours came away covered with ticks!

Be
Review №14

Most activities closed due to covid but beautiful areas were still open to the public. $5 car fee was not bad at all. Not an area to let young ones run around but we let our toddlers explore the gardens with us nearby and climb so many steps! It was very nice, some work or repairs in progress in some areas, looking forward to visiting when in full swing.

Am
Review №15

This is an awesome place to visit. I had a great time walking the trails and looking at the beautiful azaleas and other plants. There were a lot of interesting places to sit and picnic. The trails through the park are narrow at some points and have a lot of exposed roots. So be careful! The steps are pretty steep too. But definitely worth visiting.

Pa
Review №16

Great hiking with lots of elevation change on the azalea trail or walk on the paved path around the top of the ravine. Try to visit during February to see the azaleas in bloom. Plan on spending at least an hour or two exploring.

Je
Review №17

The park is beautiful, but most it is closed right now due to a large scale restoration project.

He
Review №18

Gorgeous day. Came to the gardens from South Florida and worth the 4 hour drive. Loved all the nature trials for hiking. Amazing to think most of this was established in the 1930s! The state park staff was very friendly and knowledge. Easily can spent over 2 hours here if you love trials. Will have to return when the its blooming season (January - March). By the way, if you visit the ranger office during business hours, you can even get a postcard with a 50 cent donation.

Ma
Review №19

Have been going there for years. Took my mother and aunt for picnics and short walks. They loved the peaceful atmosphere and friendly people. The azaleas in the spring are beautiful.

Ma
Review №20

Beautiful day to enjoy the park!Trails are said to be difficult but they are pretty easy. If you have a bum knee like I do all the steps/stairs are far worse than the roots and holes.If you stay on the paths you will be fine. If you break off the paths into the wood trails, there are some more difficult navigation but nothing to get in the way. Maybe bust your butt on some muck but..hey!, Thats the fun of going off the beaten path.Still a lot of Irma debris lying around but they are doing a very good job keeping the paths clear.Azaleas were very pretty, Camillas were gorgeous!There is a LOT to maintain in this park and the staffing is abundant and helpful if needed.Plan to spend 2-3 hrs to enjoy the 2+ mile trail if you stop to enjoy where you are.This is a beautiful, serene jungle/forest/oasis escape zone.

Ja
Review №21

Although most of the playgrounds and small play areas are closed, the park still offers a massive variety of spaces you can choose to grill, eat, and have fun with your friends and family.

Ky
Review №22

Gorgeous state park! But still only a small fraction of it is open currently. They’re rebuilding and repaving the driving loop, and the only part open is the garden and a very small portion of the loop and trails. The suspension bridge is accessible from one end, but closed off at the other.

Jo
Review №23

Unfortunately, they currently have part of the park closed down for renovations but the parts that are open are definitely worth seeing. Weve been here in the past and have to say that its one of Northeast Floridas best kept secrets. Cant wait until the renovations are completed!

Ri
Review №24

Very pretty and well kept. Pet friendly and lots of pavilions to sit down and visit with family.

Ke
Review №25

The Ravines State Park is a hidden gem. Its in a small town with little tourism. The State Park is beautifully maintained. They have both paved and unpaved trails. When the azaleas are blooming, the place is gorgeous! The trails are quite steep, so be prepared. There are also a lot of steps depending on how you go. Its $5 per car, so a great family outdoor activity.

SM
Review №26

If you want to see a beautiful peaceful place while visiting Palatka FL visit the Ravine Garden you won’t be disappointed.

No
Review №27

Its a nice place to take a walk in the woods but its also downhill then back up when you are tired. The length of the the trails are estimated a bit shorter than they feel. A middle aged lady had to sit on the ground 3/4ths of the way through. Then had to walk back up the hill. Im from the mountains, so its probably not considered a hill by flat landers. Also my wife and I have scars from all of the chigger bites. Ive never had this long to heal from chiggers!

Zo
Review №28

Absolutely beautiful, we adored the cool Bridges and saw lots of wildlife. Mosquitoes werent too bad. We hiked the Azalea trail and it was well worth it. I would suggest that you bring water (especially on a hot day). We really loved all the steps too. Make sure you bring your camera you wont regret it!

Jo
Review №29

Cant wait to go back when all the flowers are blooming! Fantastic hike!

Mi
Review №30

Family went today and we had a good time. They were very upfront about only having 20% of the park open right now. They will be done in 10 weeks or so they said. But even with the closures it is a gorgeous place. Mike the ranger was especially helpful and nice. We cant wait to come back when the reno is done.

Bo
Review №31

Breathtaking!!! This park is a must see!! Put this on your to do list. I promise it is worth it! From the natural spring to the beautiful flowers! How about the awesome trails and spectacular suspension bridges? This place is majestic. The entrance to the park is amazing.

Jo
Review №32

Great variety of efforts along the trail and pretty garden at the beginning. Althoigh it needs to be weeded.

Ma
Review №33

Amazing trails, beautiful, you feel like youre in the mountains

Al
Review №34

This park was pretty awesome and beautiful. 80% was closed for renovations and it was still worth the $5 to get in! I probably wont ever be back in that random town but if I was ever in Jacksonville or somewhere of relevance I would go back to this park! Id even go out of my way to see the new renovations if I was anywhere close by

Bi
Review №35

This state park has many surprises. A valley with small spring stream. The valley has many hiking trails and easy walk road that surrounds Park. Large variety of vegetation. Must see if youre in area

To
Review №36

I love visiting this park. It seems different every time. Lots of different trails and so many different views and plants and amazing trees. You’ll spend some great time in nature and leave in a better mood than when you arrived. Don’t miss a spooky walk across the suspension bridge (don’t worry, you’ll be fine.).

Gr
Review №37

Visiting this location for the first time was an extremely enjoyable surprise. This is an excellent place for a relaxing picnic, a walk through beautiful bushland and, when the azaleas are in full bloom (Jan - March) is a wonderland of color. Bring your walking shoes, camera and enjoy a few hours in Natures backyard!

Ro
Review №38

A beautiful park. It was a busy day, we did not realize there was a festival happening. But even with all the people we had a good time hiking along and enjoying the wonderful day.

ly
Review №39

Great place for a walk. Some places to push a stroller. Some steep steps in other areas. Enjoyable for very young to very old.

Sh
Review №40

I absolutely love this place. Who knew this little perfect Jim was right here so close to home. Highly recommend is for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Simple to moderate hikes perfect for the family or that photographer who loves getting the perfect picture

Ma
Review №41

Love hiking here with my family when we are in town. Right now (August 2020) most of the trails are closed due to repairs they need. There is parking outside the park or you can pay to park closer to the trails for a fee.

Ti
Review №42

This is my first time here and we loved it, theres beautiful flowers, the trails are well grooomed the ppl are nice, you can walk anywhere, Id bring a lunch you can chill out at one of many benches and watch nature. Theres hills for once, everywhere else is flat. Very good walking trails . And bring the dog they are welcomed. Pay your five dollars at the gate and garbage in garbage out. And the suspension bridges were a bonus.

To
Review №43

Beautiful azalea trail.

Mi
Review №44

Love The Trails, The Little Creek That Runs Through The Bottom. Good Place For The Kids To Run Around.

J
Review №45

Ravine Gardens state park is and has always been such a great place to go. Walking down to the stream and navigating the trailways is such a relaxing way to spend the day.

Ma
Review №46

Really nice and peaceful place to walk!!

Ni
Review №47

Beautiful place!

Ry
Review №48

A very beautiful park with lots of hiking trails and local and exotic plants. The trails range from easy to difficult so something for everyone. There is also a visitor center with bathrooms, a vending machine and water fountain.

Su
Review №49

We enjoyed a stroll through the Azalea Trail today. The colors were amazing and vibrant. There was a large variety of foliage and palm trees. The swing bridges were fun to walk across as well. We noted several people having a picnic lunch in the covered pavilion. We determined to come back soon with a picnic lunch to have prior to going on the trail. This Park is a nice place to visit for all ages. On our hike over the trails, we met a couple that had been married for 65 years. They stated they come to the Park often to take a leisurely walk. There are bike trails, walking trails and several look-out areas to simply sit and take in the view. The restroom facilities were clean too! We definitely plan to return soon!

Ge
Review №50

A majority of the park trails are currently closed and being renovated but what was accessible was beautiful.

Tr
Review №51

Ok place, certainly worth the visit as grounds are expansive!

Br
Review №52

Love this park, great everytime we come. Awesome trails and nice walk along the entire length of the spring run.

Da
Review №53

Beautiful park! Stumbled across this place returning from a field trip farther north and cant wait to take the entire family back again to explore more!

Jo
Review №54

Searched for a while regarding being open, drove a couple of hours out of way, and when we arrived, completely closed trails because of Hurricane, 2 years ago...they could have simply said, closed for repairs. NOT IMPRESSED.

Pa
Review №55

This place is absolutely amazing. The scenery and the walking trails are just beautiful. They are a bit of a challenge lot of uphill and downhill and climbing Stone steps. The smell from the Azaleas is unbelievable. The water flowing through is crystal clear with springs bubbling up through it. If youre looking to experience nature in Beauty along with a very good workout I highly advise this Trail.

Se
Review №56

Beautiful park! Excellent place to walk

mi
Review №57

Great place gem in plane sight. Will be returning a lot.

Ly
Review №58

Very nice, good trail, not to crowded

Mi
Review №59

Such an amazing and beautiful state park. The trails are fun, the views are astonishing. The suspension bridges are so much fun, the park is great additions. The azaleas are absolutely beautiful when in season. Overall it’s an amazing park. The amphitheater is such a great place for great pictures. A very fun place to bring the kids/family. 10/10 would recommend.

Jo
Review №60

Hey, a ravine in Florida!!! Nice to go for a walk that goes up and down for a change. We enjoyed the place, bit of history here also, worth the hour drive to go to Palatka.

La
Review №61

Nice hiking trails, and really tough hills, rocks, roots, slippery slopes to get over. The suspension bridges which were cool. Only had time to do the Red Azalea trail, but it was great. They also have a paved loop around the park to walk if youre not into the strenuous hills etc. Saw several elderly folks struggling a bit on the steep steps, no handrails etc. I love parks like this in their natural setting. It was an old water works for the city of Palatka.

Ja
Review №62

Nice walk. Plan to spend 1.5 hours here, if you walk the 2.5 mile trail. There were a new orange trees too!

Ef
Review №63

A must place. A piece of heaven. This is the best attention! I cant believe it was only $5.

Ma
Review №64

Hurricane damage has forced closed the loop about the park you once could drive but it makes for nice easy traffic free hike. Storms have damaged the hiking trails enough theyre moderately challenging and somewhat exciting for the novice...make sure youre able and have good shoes.Map we found in the Civic Center wasnt all that helpful, really. Could have saved the $5 and parked outside the gates in their free parking area and walked in.

An
Review №65

Beautiful, well taken care of. Lots of different water features (spring, creek, tiny waterfall, etc.) Many trails to suit shines needs, paved, dirt, enveloped by wilderness, etc. Lots of inclines or stairs, ravines, declines. Great for a full body workout. Dog friendly, kid friendly.

Re
Review №66

Had a great time. We went towards the springs on the challenging trail. A lot of nice people and beautiful grounds. Great work out!

De
Review №67

Walk out of the darkness Suicide Prevention walk had a great time with friends and family! A very worthy cause but of course theres so much more than that that you can do at The Ravines they have workout stations beautiful flowers a suspension bridge if youve never been its a must do!!

An
Review №68

Great for quiet nature lovers. Not for adrenaline junkie. Kids liked the bridges, park, and exercise area. Some narrow uneven trails, but great family time.

Ro
Review №69

Very pretty and interesting. Bring closed shoes. you are in high grass and sandy walkway.

Ma
Review №70

Awesome trails, strollers are limited to the paved sections. Plan on carrying children especially on Azalea Trail. Recommend lace up shoes as the ground is very uneven with lots of steep steps and roots. Put my flatlander fitness to the test!

Ca
Review №71

Too much of this area is still closed from hurricane damage years ago. So disappointed that you still cant walk down to the streams. Hot and not worth it.

Da
Review №72

Nice place for a short hike. 80% closed right now from storm damage though

Mi
Review №73

Trails can be steep in places and narrow, dont recommend for ADA. Pretty place though.

de
Review №74

This is a beautiful park with good hiking trails in a lot of shade but a lot of up and down, exposed roots...not the easiest hiking but that is what we like. Unfortunately they had quite a bit of damage from Irma and parts of our trail was gone but we knew that going in...just made the hike a little more demanding, but again that was fine with us. This is a jewel right in the middle of a housing area!

As
Review №75

My absolute favorite place to take a walk!

Li
Review №76

This place is very beautiful with hidden trails and suspended bridges!!! Very great way to spend a morning!

Va
Review №77

Beautiful, natural environment. The various ravines are unusual for Florida.

Ro
Review №78

Great place, nice walks, an easy paved walk and several challenging paths that really wear you out. Plenty of bathrooms and picnic areas. Especially recommend the January 1:st event which we attended today. Well organized, interesting and engaging. Well worth the drive from Jacksonville. Thank you ranger guys and girls!

Ri
Review №79

Great easy hike. Part of spring trail still closed for repair. Also beware of lots of stairs for those who cant get around fast.

Ro
Review №80

We were pleasantly surprised with how beautiful it was here. Its a really big place to take a walk and enjoy nature. Was fun crossing over the one bridge. Just be aware, the hiking trails can be really challenging.

Jo
Review №81

Love the park which is mostly hiking trails. Its for healthy people that likes nature. Lots of hills and stairs.

em
Review №82

Hiking in Florida!? Yes! 2. 5mi or more hike! So beautiful too!

Mi
Review №83

80% of the park was closed, so not sure how it is normally. This was stated online & at the entrance, but we were staying locally and decided to give it a try. We hope to return when the repairs are completed.

As
Review №84

Beautiful state park hiking trails with two suspension bridges, wild orange trees, and bright blooming azaleas

Pa
Review №85

Love this park,pleanty to do for a day trip,lots of places to stop for a picnic or just rest in the shade and enjoy the views

sh
Review №86

One of my most favorite places, have been going here since a child. We were disappointed that the drive through the park was closed but I think it has erosion due to a past hurricane. We took a picnic then walked around the park, it is beautiful. Some of the flowers were blooming and gorgeous. We love this park, lots of great hiking, good for kids too.

Th
Review №87

Such a treasure of a place here in Florida. Great nature hike! Beautifully treed spot with plenty of shade along the trails. I’ll make this a regular spot for sure. #naturelover

Am
Review №88

This place was so fun! Be prepared with a map on your phone. The guard at the entrance said to go take a picture of a map in visitor center...no map to be found. So off we went and instantly became lost! Once we found a spot with cell service we found a map online and found our way again. Beautiful place!

ma
Review №89

Beautiful grounds. Great place to hike, walk, picnic.

Ja
Review №90

We really liked the gardens...even with the horrible hurricane damage..just sad to see. But they really neeeeeeed to mark their paths very clearly. We took theAzalea path and did ok for awhile but then ended up lost due to lack of definite signage. We found our way back ok...it was just frustrating...we were trying to do this in a timely manner and head up the road to do more things...kinda put a dent in our short daylight hours

Ka
Review №91

Except 80% of the park is closed

Ro
Review №92

I have visited this park since the 70s. Currently its still rebuilding due to hurricane activity. I like it for the nature and quiet. Very peaceful. The staff are outstanding as well. I gave it five stars due to aforementioned reasons.

No
Review №93

Nice scenery and a good walking path. The suspension bridge had my son in awe. He loved it. A nice place to get away and enjoy nature for a little bit.

Bo
Review №94

Quite a workout, lots of stairs. Beautiful azaleas all over. Unusual terrain variation for fl..

J
Review №95

We go every year in early March, and the azaleas are spectacular. This year, the drive around the perimeter of the ravine was closed due to ongoing cleanup since Hurricane Irma last fall, but you can still park and hike down into the quarter mile deep ravine. There is a stream at the bottom, walking paths and hiking trails, and a picturesque suspension bridge. Except for a few palmettos here and there you might think youre in the north Georgia mountains. A very nice community center at the entrance to the ravine has clean restrooms. There are picnic tables and pavilions there, too.

Ma
Review №96

This was the first time wed made it to the park during the azalea bloom. They were so beautiful! The park is still recovering from the storms that hit it a few years ago so the perimeter road is still out.

D
Review №97

Azaleas in bloom in late February. We walked the paved path and it was an easy, gorgeous experience. Lots of different plants with blooms, but the azaleas were stunning. Beautiful, well maintained park with $5 per car entrance fee.

Le
Review №98

Nice trails, beautiful azaleas. Wonderful historic place.

Ja
Review №99

Very awesome an Romantic for a date the trails are amazing.

La
Review №100

We love this park! The small spring on the bottom of the ravine is so peaceful. Our kids love the wire bridges and our adventure to find the park each time. We have yet to see the Azalea trail in full bloom but we plan to go back. There was some erosion from the hurricanes but it isnt enough to keep anyone from enjoying the beauty that the park has to offer.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.7 Rating
  • Address:1600 Twigg St, Palatka, FL 32177, United States
  • Site:https://floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ravine-gardens-state-park
  • Phone:+1 386-329-3721
Categories
  • Tourist attraction
  • Park
Working hours
  • Monday:8am–7pm
  • Tuesday:8am–7pm
  • Wednesday:8am–7pm
  • Thursday:8am–7pm
  • Friday:8am–7pm
  • Saturday:8am–7pm
  • Sunday:8am–7pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park:Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
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